Donald L. Mccray

Donald L. McCray, of North Las Vegas, passed away May 28, 2016. He was born July 3, 1937, as the first born son of John Henry and Satis Victoria (nee Ballou) McCray in Charleston, S.C. Don was a decorated officer of the U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Division, serving two tours of duty during the Vietnam War in the 173rd Airborne Brigade. After retirement as a chief warrant officer 4 from the U.S. Armed Forces, Don later served with the State of Alaska Department of Corrections as a lieutenant. Upon relocation to Las Vegas, Don resumed the rank of lieutenant with the State of Nevada Department of Corrections. Don's was a life well-spent in the service of others, from his family to his beloved friends, church and neighbors. Don never met a stranger nor failed to offer his help to anyone in need. Don rededicated his life to Christ in 1977 at Leake Temple AME Zion Church, Anchorage, under the pastoral care of the Rt. Rev. Theodore A. Moore (deceased). Several years after relocating to Las Vegas, Don joined First AME Church, where he readily volunteered countless hours in the church food pantry, the voter rights education drive during both of President Barak Obama's campaigns for the presidency of the United States. He volunteered as a medical escort for the Southern Nevada Veterans Hospital. Anyone who knew Don, would agree that the one word that most appropriately described him was "generous." He had a generous spirit and heart and he willingly provided encouragement and advocacy to others. He never gave up on anyone and he constantly encouraged, prayed with you and he prayed for you. He was always there for all who needed him and he never stopped believing. He believed in his family, in his friends, in laughing and making others laugh, he always left you with a smile in your heart to brighten your day. He believed most fervently in the goodness, grace and forgiveness of God. Don was preceded in death by his parents, John and Satis McCray; and his sister, Moesa "Peaches" Thompson. Don leaves behind to cherish his memory a devoted and loving family, his wife, Cynthia J. McCray; son, Donald L. McCray; daughters, Doreene Vanbrunt and Deidre A. McCray; stepson, Nicholas J. Jackson and Wendell Clark; stepdaughter, Wendy Manumalo; brothers, John H. McCray (Marguerite) of Rhode Island, and Rev. Thomas B. McCray (Francis) of Colorado; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Beverly A. Jones (Carl) of Anchorage; and a host of adored nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, June 3, at First AME Church, 2446 Revere St., North Las Vegas.

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